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Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

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This creamy and cheesy pasta dish is loaded with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, tender broccoli, and pasta tossed in a rich cheese sauce. It’s a comforting meal perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta Dish:

  • 300 g (10 oz) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 chicken breasts (diced)
  • 4 slices of bacon (chopped)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk (warm)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:

  1. Boil the Pasta:
    • Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions.
    • Add the broccoli florets to the pot during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Bacon and Chicken:

  1. Cook the Bacon:
    • In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  2. Cook the Chicken:
    • In the same skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

  1. Prepare the Roux:
    • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
  2. Add Milk and Cheese:
    • Gradually whisk in the warm milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens. Stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Serve:

  1. Mix Everything Together:
    • Add the pasta, broccoli, chicken, and bacon to the cheese sauce. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
  2. Serve:
    • Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of red chili flakes to the sauce.
  • Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if preferred.
  • To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken.
  • This dish is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to revive the sauce.

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/cheesy-bacon-chicken-pasta-with-broccoli/